Modern Nature
by The Charlatans UK
  • Record Label: BMG
  • Release Date: Jan 26, 2015
Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 16 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 16
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 16
  3. Negative: 0 out of 16
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  1. The Telegraph (UK)
    Feb 5, 2015
    100
    Deeply infused with rich, subtle hooks, Modern Nature is a patient album that warms the bones with a steady fusion of mid-tempo Curtis Mayfield soul (muzzy organ, bongos and funk guitar), with memories of Madchester club nights (baggy beats, chunky chords, shoegazer vocals) and tasteful string arrangements.
  2. musicOMH.com
    Feb 5, 2015
    90
    Wholly unexpected and majestic, repeated plays will reward tenfold as song after song worms itself under the skin to create a thoroughly rewarding experience.
  3. PopMatters
    Apr 23, 2015
    80
    Modern Nature isn’t perfect. There is the occasional lapse in the quality of the song-writing.... The album concludes on some demos and remixes, mostly given the dub treatment--the Charlatans have (positive) form here too.
  5. The Quietus
    Feb 12, 2015
    80
    The band have delivered a wonderfully cohesive set of songs, and in the process have ensured that Modern Nature is their best release in many a moon.
  6. Mojo
    Feb 5, 2015
    80
    Their most remarkable record in years. [Feb 2015, p.95]
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  7. Q Magazine
    Feb 5, 2015
    80
    By digging deep The Charlatans have made their best album in a decade. [Feb 2015, p.111]
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  8. AllMusic
    Feb 5, 2015
    80
    By incorporating these offhand allusions to the past while being firmly planted in a mature present, Modern Nature showcases a band whose members are aware of where they've been and grateful for what they have.
  9. Drowned In Sound
    Feb 5, 2015
    80
    Having set high standards for two-and-a-half decades, Modern Nature serves as another prized addition to The Charlatans' already wealthy canon.
  10. The Observer (UK)
    Feb 5, 2015
    80
    The first half, particularly, is very good indeed, the best tracks (Talking in Tones, Come Home Baby) both wistful and gloriously alive.
  11. Exclaim
    Apr 17, 2015
    70
    A fluid release, a chilled-out, soulful take on the Charlatans' psychedelic sound complemented by muted horns and jazzy keys.
  12. Magnet
    Feb 20, 2015
    70
    It's far, far better than anyone ever had a right to expect. [No. 117, p.53]
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  13. Uncut
    Feb 5, 2015
    70
    Modern Nature is close to classic Charlatans--no mean feat after their recent tribulation. [Feb 2015, p.74]
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  14. Clash Music
    Feb 5, 2015
    70
    Modern Nature is a significant step forward for a band dogged by being seen merely as Britpop survivors that have never really moved on. This is evidence that they truly, distinctively have.
  15. The 405
    Feb 5, 2015
    70
    Despite some trite moments, there are compelling sections spread throughout the album... it's just a matter of finding them.
  16. New Musical Express (NME)
    Feb 5, 2015
    70
    Both modern and natural, tragedy has tugged defiance from The Charlatans once more.
  17. The Line of Best Fit
    Feb 5, 2015
    70
    Modern Nature likely won’t ripple the upper reaches of the album charts or critic lists, nor will it rouse any new fans, but it’s an undeniable a pleasure to those who already are and proof The Charlatans tank is plenty full.

User Reviews

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User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 9 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 9
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 9
  3. Negative: 1 out of 9
  1. Noiseblock
    Mar 24, 2015
    8
    To be honest, when I first listened to Modern Nature, I felt like the Charlatans had lost their talent for creating their usual melodicTo be honest, when I first listened to Modern Nature, I felt like the Charlatans had lost their talent for creating their usual melodic melancholy somewhere in-between all these mid-tempo songs. However, Modern Nature is one of these albums that demand a bit of commitment from the listener to disclose the treasures that (most) of these eleven songs truly are. As I read the lyrics and listened to the album again and again, trying to decode the messages some of the more encryptic songs require, I found myself completely immersed in the end. It truly is a mesmerizing experience that demands a lot of patience from the listener, but once you put a bit of effort into it, you´ll find yourself hooked on this album. It may not be perfect and there a definitely high points and one or two lower points, but it still is a great album nonetheless that may leave a permanent impression on the listener.… Full Review »
  2. Hackskeptic
    May 29, 2015
    7
    Easy paced reminiscences of good times passed, The Charlatans have survived with dignity, and this leisurely stroll has the perfect aura forEasy paced reminiscences of good times passed, The Charlatans have survived with dignity, and this leisurely stroll has the perfect aura for the calm early hours. Maybe not their most vital recording, but nonetheless Tim Burgess and co. continue to deliver surprisingly innate indie rock charms.… Full Review »
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